JP2021106815A - Performance control system, computer program used therefor, and control method - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a performance control system capable of switching control of a performance device between manual control and control based on performance control data according to a game play status.SOLUTION: A performance control system 1 determines whether a switching condition based on each play status that occurs in a game is satisfied or not, when a game event is provided in which the game provided by a game machine 4 is used as an event at an event venue EF. When the switching condition is not satisfied, the performance control system 1 controls a performance device 3 on the basis of performance control data CD. On the other hand, when the switching condition is satisfied, the performance control system switches the control of the performance device 3 from the automatic control to the manual control so that the manual control as the control of the performance device 3 by manual is executed until a restart condition is satisfied, instead of the automatic control as the control of the performance device 3 based on the performance control data CD.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

The present invention is connected to a production device installed at an event venue via a network, and controls the production device so as to realize a production at the event venue based on production control data for executing control of the production device. It is related to the production control system to be performed.

A production control system that is connected to the production equipment installed at the event venue via a network and controls the production equipment so as to realize the production at the event venue based on the production control data for executing the control of the production equipment. Exists. For example, there are known such effect devices, and as effects, a large display device installed at an event venue and a system that uses characters displayed therein (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP-A-2018-158046

In the system of Patent Document 1, an event using a character displayed on a large display device is provided at an event venue. On the other hand, at the event venue, a game event using a game provided by a game machine may be provided. In such a game event, it is often exciting when the production according to the game play situation is executed at the event venue. For this reason, the production device may be manually controlled so that the production according to the playing situation of the game is realized. However, not only is it time-consuming, but mistakes are likely to occur. Therefore, there is a need for a system that automates similar control.

On the other hand, it may be preferable to manually realize some of the effects. For example, in the award ceremony when the event is executed in the form of a tournament, various productions such as lighting may be automated, but in many cases, it is more exciting if it is realized flexibly according to the mood of the event venue. Alternatively, in a game event, various mini-lives may be sandwiched separately from the game, but in such a mini-live, it is highly likely that a flexible production is preferable.

Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide an effect control system or the like capable of switching control of an effect device between control based on effect control data and manual control according to a game play situation.

The effect control system of the present invention is connected to the effect device installed at the event venue via a network, and realizes the effect at the event venue based on the effect control data for executing the control of the effect device. When a game event using a game provided by a game machine is provided as an event at the event venue in the production control system that controls the production device, switching conditions based on each play situation that occur in the game are satisfied. The condition determining means for determining whether or not the switching condition is satisfied, the device control means for controlling the effect device based on the effect control data when the switching condition is not satisfied, and the effect control when the switching condition is satisfied. The control of the effect device is controlled from the automatic control so that the manual control as the control of the effect device is executed manually instead of the automatic control as the control of the effect device based on the data until the restart condition is satisfied. It is provided with a control switching means for switching to manual control.

On the other hand, the computer program of the present invention is configured to cause a computer connected to the effect device via the network to function as each means of the effect control system described above.

Further, the control method of the present invention is connected to an effect device installed at the event venue via a network, and realizes the effect at the event venue based on the effect control data for executing the control of the effect device. When a game event using a game provided by a game machine is provided as an event at the event venue to a computer incorporated in an effect control system that controls the effect device, switching based on each play situation that occurs in the game. When the condition determination procedure for determining whether or not the condition is satisfied, the device control procedure for controlling the effect device based on the effect control data when the switching condition is not satisfied, and the switching condition are satisfied, The control of the effect device is automatically performed so that the manual control as the control of the effect device is manually performed instead of the automatic control as the control of the effect device based on the effect control data until the restart condition is satisfied. The control switching procedure for switching from the control to the manual control is executed.

The figure which shows the schematic structure of the effect control system which concerns on one form of this invention. A functional block diagram showing a main part of the control system of the production control system. An explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a control service when a venue production using a game play situation is realized. An explanatory diagram for explaining an example of venue production realized through a control service at an event venue that functions as a public viewing venue. Explanatory drawing for demonstrating an example of a control switching service. An explanatory diagram for explaining an example of an event service. The figure which shows an example of the structure of production data. The figure which shows an example of the structure of production control data. The figure which shows an example of the structure of event data. The figure which shows an example of the structure of the device management data. A flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the target identification process. A flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the effect processing. The flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of a control switching process. The flowchart which shows an example of the procedure of the resumption processing.

Hereinafter, an example of the effect control system according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. First, with reference to FIG. 1, the overall configuration of the effect control system according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described. The effect control system 1 includes a center server 2 as a server device. The effect device 3 and the game machine 4 are connected to the center server 2 as client devices that can be connected via a predetermined network NT. The center server 2 is configured as one logical server device by combining the server units 2A, 2B, etc. as a plurality of computer devices. However, the center server 2 may be configured by a single server unit. Alternatively, the center server 2 may be logically configured by using cloud computing.

The network NT may be appropriately configured as long as the effect device 3 and the game machine 4 can be connected to the center server 2. As an example, the network NT may be constructed by an Internet as a WAN and a LAN that connects each of the center server 2 and the production device 3 or the center server 2 and the game machine 4 to the Internet. It should be noted that various computer devices such as a local server that controls the effect device 3 and the like may be appropriately interposed between the effect device 3 and the LAN. In this case, various devices that can be controlled through such a computer device may function as the effect device 3 and the like.

The production device 3 and the game machine 4 may be installed at appropriate locations, but in the example of FIG. 1, they are both installed at the event venue EF. The effect device 3 is a well-known output device that realizes various effects, or an input device used for such effects. The effect device 3 is configured as a network device (so-called IOT device) that can be connected to the network NT. An appropriate device may be used as the effect device 3, but in the example of FIG. 1, a light unit 3A, a speaker 3B, a smoke device 3C, a monitor 3D, and a camera 3E are shown.

The light unit 3A is a well-known lighting device that performs various visual effects by lighting (light) such as lighting, blinking, extinguishing, or appropriately developing a color. The speaker 3B is a well-known audio output device that performs an auditory effect by reproducing (outputting) various sounds. The smoke device 3C is a well-known device that performs a visual effect by generating an appropriate amount of smoke (smoke). Further, the monitor 3D is a well-known display device that displays various images (for directing or including various information). On the other hand, the camera 3E is a well-known optical device that captures an event pattern. Such shooting includes the game machine 4 or a user who plays a game through the game machine 4. The operation of each of these effect devices 3 is controlled by the center server 2 via the network NT.

When the effect device 3 is connected to the network NT via the computer device, the operation of the effect device 3 may be controlled by the center server 2 via the computer device. Such control may be realized through various well-known techniques, and an appropriate system for controlling the operation of the effect device 3 is constructed between the computer device and the effect device 3 through such various techniques. It's okay. For example, the control of the effect device 3 may be realized by using the USITT DMX512-A standard. The USITT DMX512-A standard is a technology for controlling various production devices 3 connected to a controller in a string of beads through signals of a common standard. In this case, the controller and the center server 2 are connected via the network NT, and the operation of each effect device 3 connected in a row is controlled via the controller. Hereinafter, as an example, a case where control of the effect device 3 is realized via such a controller will be described.

The game machine 4 is a device that provides a game. As the game machine 4, various computer devices used for personal purposes such as a stationary or portable game machine (including a tablet or a smartphone) or a stationary or book type personal computer may be used. In the example of 1, an arcate game machine is used. An arcade game machine is a computer device that is originally installed in an appropriate facility such as a store for the main purpose of making a large number of users repeatedly play a game to generate profits. Therefore, the game machine 4 is a commercial (commercial) game machine (a game machine that provides a game for a fee) that allows the user to play a game within a range corresponding to the play fee in exchange for payment of a predetermined play fee. ), But in the example of FIG. 1, the game play is provided free of charge as a part of the event at the event venue EF. The game machine 4 may provide an appropriate game such as an action game, a simulation game, a role-playing game, or a timing game (music game) for the event.

Event venue EF is the venue where the event is held. At the event venue EF, an appropriate event may be provided, but as an example, an event using the game provided by the game machine 4 (hereinafter, may be referred to as a game event) is provided. The production device 3 may be applied to various productions at the event venue EF, and such productions include a game or a production for enlivening a game event. There may be one event venue EF, but as an example, a plurality of event venue EFs are prepared. Common events are offered at all of these event venues EF. Therefore, in principle, the game machine 4 is installed in each event venue EF, but in the example of FIG. 1, the event venue EF in which the game machine 4 is not installed is also shown. Such an event venue EF may function as a public viewing venue for sharing the events of other event venue EFs distributed through, for example, monitor 3D. Appropriate production equipment 3 may be arranged in each event venue EF according to the characteristics of each venue. For example, the types of production equipment 3 installed in each event venue EF may be unified in all event venue EFs. (The type of the production device 3 may be the same in all the event venues EF), but they are different in the example of FIG. Specifically, for example, a camera 3E for shooting is not installed in the event venue EF that functions as a public viewing venue. That is, the type of the production device 3 installed in each event venue EF is different for each event venue EF.

The center server 2 provides various device services to the production device 3. For example, when the effect device 3 (or controller) is configured to store a program or data, the device service includes a data distribution service that distributes and updates such a program or data via a network NT. But it may be. As described above, the device service includes various services related to the effect device 3, and as an example, a control service for controlling the effect device 3 is included. The details of the control service will be described later.

Similarly, the center server 2 provides various game machine services to the game machine 4 via the network NT. The game machine service includes an event service for executing an event instruction or requesting (acquiring) event data from the game machine 4. Details of the event service will be described later. The game machine service includes a matching service that matches users of other game machines 4 as opponents or cooperators when the game machine 4 provides a battle-type game or a cooperative game. good. In addition, the service for a game machine may include, for example, a service that receives identification information of a user from the game machine 4 and authenticates the user. Similarly, it may include a service that receives data such as the usage record of the authenticated user from the game machine 4 and saves it, or provides the data to be saved to the game machine 4. Further, the service for a game machine may include a billing service for collecting a fee from a user.

Next, a main part of the control system of the effect control system 1 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the center server 2 is provided with a control unit 21 and a storage unit 22 as storage means. The control unit 21 is configured as a computer in which a CPU as an example of a processor that executes various arithmetic processes and operation controls according to a predetermined computer program, an internal memory required for the operation, and other peripheral devices are combined.

The storage unit 22 is an external storage device realized by a storage unit including a non-volatile storage medium (computer-readable storage medium) such as a hard disk array. The storage unit 22 may be configured to hold all the data in one storage unit, or may be configured to distribute and store the data in a plurality of storage units. The program PG1 is recorded in the storage unit 22 as an example of a computer program that causes the control unit 21 to execute various processes necessary for providing various services to the user. Further, the storage unit 22 stores server data 23 necessary for providing various services. Such server data 23 includes various data necessary for providing a device service or a game machine service, but in the example of FIG. 2, the effect control data is used as a kind of such various data. A CD, an event data ED, an effect data SD, and a device management data MD are shown.

The effect control data CD is data for controlling the operation (effect) of the effect device 3. On the other hand, the effect data SD is data for determining an operation (effect) to be executed by the effect device 3. That is, the effect data SD is used to determine the operation to be executed by the effect device 3, and the effect control data CD is used to instruct the effect device 3 to perform the determined operation. The event data ED is data for managing the progress of the event. The device management data MD is data for managing the types of the production devices 3 installed in each event venue EF. Details of the effect control data CD, the event data ED, the effect data SD, and the device management data MD will be described later. The server data 23 may also include various data for realizing various services. For example, such data includes ID management data for managing various IDs such as user IDs, play data for managing game performance of each user, or various images for game screens. Image data, BGM data for reproducing various BGMs for games, and the like may be included. However, their illustration is omitted.

The control unit 21 is provided with a device service management unit 24 and a game machine service management unit 25 as logical devices realized by combining the hardware resources of the control unit 21 and the program PG1 as software resources. Be done. The device service management unit 24 executes various processes for realizing the above-mentioned device service for the effect device 3. Such processing includes processing for realizing a control service. Specifically, the device service management unit 24 executes, for example, an effect process, a control switching process, and a restart process as such processes. On the other hand, the game machine service management unit 25 executes various processes for realizing various game machine services for the game machine 4. Such processing includes processing for realizing the service for the event. Specifically, the game machine service management unit 25 executes, for example, a target identification process as such a process. Details of the procedures for the effect processing, control switching processing, restart processing, and target identification processing will be described later.

In addition, for example, an input device such as a keyboard, an output device such as a monitor, and the like may be connected to the control unit 21 as needed. Similarly, the above-mentioned effect device 3 may be directly or indirectly connected to the control unit 21 via an appropriate computer device, but in the example of FIG. 2, the controller DC is connected to the control unit 21. The production device 3 is connected via the controller DC. In this case, the control unit 21 is configured to execute the control of the effect device 3 via the controller DC. That is, the control unit 21 outputs various control instructions to the controller DC, and the controller DC executes the control of the effect device 3 according to the instructions.

On the other hand, the game machine 4 is provided with a control unit 41 as a computer and a storage unit 42 as a storage means. The control unit 41 is configured as a computer in which a CPU as an example of a processor that executes various processes according to a predetermined computer program, an internal memory required for the operation, and other peripheral devices are combined.

The storage unit 42 is an external storage device realized by a storage unit including a non-volatile storage medium (computer-readable storage medium) such as a hard disk or a semiconductor storage device. The program PG2 is recorded in the storage unit 42 as an example of a computer program that causes the control unit 41 to execute various processes necessary for providing a game to the user. Further, the storage unit 42 records the game data GD necessary for providing the game (including the one using the service for the game machine). The game data GD includes various data necessary for providing the game, and in the example of FIG. 2, the production data SD is shown as one of them. The effect data SD is generated in the game machine 4 and appropriately provided to the center server. As an example, the effect data SD is provided from the game machine 4 to the center server 2 via the above-mentioned event service. The game data GD may also include various data necessary for providing the game, such as image data, BGM data, ID management data, and play data. These may be distributed from the center server 2 through, for example, the above-mentioned distribution service, and appropriately stored in the storage unit 42. However, these illustrations are omitted.

In the control unit 41, various logical devices are configured by combining the hardware resources of the control unit 41 and the program PG2 as software resources. Then, various processes necessary for providing the game are executed through these logical devices, and as the logical devices related to these, the image control unit 43 and the data management unit 44 are shown in the example of FIG. ing. The image control unit 43 is a logical device that performs various processes for displaying various images. Such processing includes processing for displaying a game screen for a game. On the other hand, the data management unit 44 is a logical device that performs various processes related to the management of various data recorded in the storage unit 42. Such a process includes a process of generating the effect data SD and a process of providing the effect data SD to the center server 2. For example, the data management unit 44 executes the effect processing in collaboration with the center server 2 as one of such processes.

Further, the game machine 4 may be appropriately provided with various output devices and input devices according to the type of the game machine 4, but in the example of FIG. 2, the monitor 47 and the speaker SP are input as output devices. A control panel 46 is shown as a device, respectively. The monitor 37 and the speaker SP are a well-known display device for displaying various images (including a game screen) and a well-known sound reproduction device for reproducing sound, respectively. Similarly, the control panel 46 is a well-known input device provided in a commercial game machine 4, and generally has various operation units such as a push button switch. The control panel 46 outputs a signal corresponding to the user's operation (playing action) to such an operation unit to the control unit 41.

Next, the details of the control service will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5. The control service is a service for controlling the effect device 3 to realize various effects. At the event venue EF, various effects for the event (hereinafter, may be referred to as venue effects) are realized through the control service, but in the following, venue effects are executed according to the game play status provided by the game machine 4. This case will be described.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of a control service when a venue effect using a game play situation is realized. The game machine 4 may provide an appropriate game as described above, but a case where a competitive game is provided will be described below as an example. Further, an appropriate number of game machines 4 may be installed at each event venue EF, but in the example of FIG. 3, two game machines 4 used for a battle of a battle type game are shown. Specifically, in the example of FIG. 3, when two users U play a competitive game in which two users U play against each other through two game machines 4 of the same event venue EF, the other is dominant. In the case of superiority, the three types of venue production when the match is over are shown in order from the top. The control service may realize various venue effects according to the playing situation of the game, and such various venue effects include the three types of venue effects shown in the example of FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, in any of these three types of venue effects, the center server 2 controls the effect device 3 based on the effect data SD provided from the game machine 4 of the event venue EF to provide a control service. Has been realized.

Specifically, the game machine 4 installed in the event venue EF includes two game machines 4 of the first game machine 4A and the second game machine 4B. All of these game machines 4A and 4B provide a competitive game in which users compete against each other. The game event includes a battle event in which two users U, a first user U1 and a second user U2, compete against each other in a battle-type game via these game machines 4A and 4B. In the example of FIG. 3, the event venue EF at the top shows the case where the first user U1 is dominant in such a battle event. In this case, the production data SD may be appropriately provided to both of the two game machines 4A and 4B (for example, any one of the game machines 4 functions as a host, and the game machine 4 acting as the host is used. Both or one of the effect data SDs (including the case of providing the effect data SD) is produced from the first game machine 4A corresponding to at least the first user U1 (including the case of providing the effect data SD as a host). The data SD is provided to the center server 2. In the effect data SD, information indicating a predominant play situation for the first user U1 is described. Then, the center server 2 realizes a venue production (hereinafter, may be referred to as a first venue production) corresponding to a play situation predominant in the first user U1 based on the production data SD.

Such a first venue production may be appropriately realized through various production devices 3 installed in the event venue EF, but in the example of FIG. 3, the light unit 3A, the speaker 3B, and the speaker 3B installed in the event venue EF are used. It is realized through monitor 3D. Specifically, in the event venue EF, a light unit 3A, a speaker 3B, a smoke device 3C, a monitor 3D, and a camera 3E are installed as production equipment 3, but in the example of FIG. 3, relatively among these, The center server 2 controls the effect device 3 located near the first user U1 to execute the effect. For example, the light unit 3A is provided with four lights, of which only two lights (two on the left) located on the first user U1 side (left side) are lit. Similarly, the speaker 3B located further to the left of those lights is reproducing the sound. These lighting and voice may be realized through various modes such as various color schemes, various blinking, etc., or various music, voice, etc., which produce the predominance of the first user U1.

Further, on the monitor 3D, various images such as the game screens of the first game machine 4A and the second game machine 4B, or the play patterns of the first user U1 and the second user U2 taken by the camera 3E are appropriately displayed. However, in the example of FIG. 3, such a display of the game screen or the like is omitted. On the other hand, the monitor 3D is presented with information called "first user superiority" in which the first user U1 conveys the superiority situation. Various effects expressing the superiority of the first user U1 are displayed on the monitor 3D, and such character information is displayed in the example of FIG. Further, as such character information, various information that relatively conveys the superiority of the first user U1 such as the inferiority of the second user U2 may be used, but in the example of FIG. 3, a direct expression is used. ing. When the first user is dominant, such a venue production showing the play situation is realized through the control service.

Similarly, in the example of FIG. 3, the event venue EF in the middle shows the case where the second user U2 is dominant in the battle event. In this case as well, as in the case of the event venue EF at the top, the production data SD may be appropriately provided to both of the two game machines 4A and 4B, but at least corresponds to the second user U2. The effect data SD is provided to the center server 2 from the second game machine 4B (including the case where it is provided via the game machine 4 acting as a host). In the effect data SD, information indicating a predominant play situation for the second user U2 is described. Then, the center server 2 realizes a venue effect (hereinafter, may be referred to as a second venue effect) corresponding to a play situation predominant for the second user U2 based on the effect data SD. The second venue production may be appropriately realized in the same manner as the first venue production, but in the example of FIG. 3, the production of the production device 3 located relatively close to the second user U2 among the production devices 3 of the event venue EF. It is realized by. For example, of the four lights of the light unit 3A, only two lights (two on the right) located on the second user U2 side (right side) are lit. In addition, the smoke device 3C located further to the right of those lights generates smoke. Further, the monitor 3D is also presented with the information of "second user superiority" as the character information for transmitting the superiority of the second user U2 as in the case of the first venue production. When the second user is dominant, the venue effect indicating the play situation is realized through the control service.

On the other hand, in the example of FIG. 3, the event venue EF at the bottom shows the case where the battle is completed in the battle event. In this case, the production data SD may be provided to the center server 2 only from one of the two game machines 4 in order to produce the winner or the loser, but in the example of FIG. 3, the two game machines The effect data SD is provided from both of 4 (including the case where the game machine 4 as the host provides). In each production data SD, various information indicating the result of the battle such as victory or defeat is described. The center server 2 may realize a venue production (similar to or different from the venue production in the case of superiority) in which only the winner or the loser is produced based on the production data SD. Both of these venue productions may be realized in sequence (staggered). Alternatively, the center server 2 may, for example, create a venue that shines a spotlight only on the winner (the winner of each set when a set of two game machines 4 is installed in the same event venue EF). A special production completely different from the production for the winner or the production for the loser may be realized, and the venue production may be appropriately realized in this way. However, in the example of FIG. 3, the production data of the first game machine 4A A venue production (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as a second production) that combines a production based on SD (hereinafter, may be referred to as a first production) and a production based on the production data SD of the second game machine 4B (hereinafter, may be referred to as a second production). 3 venue production) is realized.

The center server 2 may employ an appropriate effect as the first effect and the second effect, and may execute an effect obtained by further appropriately synthesizing these as the third venue effect. For example, when the first user U1 wins, the center server 2 adopts the winner's effect as the first effect and the loser's effect as the second effect, and realizes the third venue effect by combining them. You may. In this case, when overlapping (competitive) effects such as the effect of the light unit 3A or the effect of the speaker 3B occur, the center server 2 performs one of the effects such as the winner's effect based on a predetermined rule ( For example, prioritize other superiority such as ranking (the same applies when other superiority is set), and change the degree of overlapping production while giving priority to that production (for example, in the case of light production, the color scheme is more gorgeous. It may be changed to, the brightness may be increased, or the music may be changed to a more lively music or the volume may be increased if the speaker 3B is produced. In this way, the center server 2 may execute various effects in which the first effect and the second effect are appropriately combined as the third venue effect, but in the example of FIG. 3, the first effect and the second effect are the first. The effect when the user U1 is dominant and the effect when the second user is dominant are adopted, and the third venue effect is realized by combining these.

Specifically, the sound is reproduced from the speaker 3B that realizes the effect when the first user U1 is dominant, and the smoke device 3C that realizes the effect when the second user U2 is dominant generates smoke. .. Similarly, the two lights that are lit when the first user U1 is dominant and the two lights that are lit when the second user U2 is dominant are both lit, resulting in all four lights of the light unit 3A. Is lit. On the other hand, on the monitor 3D, as an example of various character information corresponding to the battle result, information for congratulating the winner, "Congratulations", which is different depending on whether the first user U1 is dominant or the second user U2 is dominant, is displayed. ing. The third venue production may be realized by a mere combination of the first production and the second production, but as an example, it is not a mere combination, but is realized by a composition in which appropriate modifications such as display of the monitor 3D are made. Will be done. When the match is over, a relatively gorgeous venue production is realized through the control service by synthesizing the first production and the second production in this way. In this example, the first game machine 4A and the second game machine 4B function as two or more game machines of the present invention. Further, the first effect and the second effect function as a plurality of corresponding effects of the present invention. Further, the event venue EF and the third venue production function as one event venue of the present invention and the adjusted production, respectively.

FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of venue production realized through a control service at an event venue EF (hereinafter, may be abbreviated as PB event venue EF) that functions as a public viewing venue. The PB event venue EF is different in various facilities from the event venue EF (hereinafter, may be referred to as a normal event venue EF), for example, the game machine 4 is not installed. Therefore, there is a possibility that the production that can be realized at the normal event venue EF and the production that can be realized at the PB event venue EF are different. Further, not only in the PB event EF, but also in the normal event venue EF, there is a possibility that various facilities are different due to the structural characteristics of each event venue EF. Further, even between ordinary event venues EFs with the same equipment, different venue productions may be required depending on the characteristics of participants or environmental characteristics (for example, the permitted volume differs depending on the environment). In the control service, such a difference is taken into consideration, and the venue production according to the characteristics of each event venue EF is realized. For example, in the PB event venue EF, various production devices 3 are controlled for each event venue EF so that a venue production different from that of the normal event venue EF is realized. In the following, with reference to FIG. 4, the difference in venue production between the PB event venue EF and the normal event venue EF will be described as an example of such a difference.

The example of FIG. 4 shows the venue production at the PB event venue EF when the second venue production is executed in the example of FIG. In this case, as shown in FIG. 4, the center server 2 is unique in the PB event venue EF, which is different from the normal event venue EF, based on the production data SD acquired from the second game machine 4B of the normal event venue EF. Realize the venue production.

Specifically, as in the example of FIG. 3, first, the production data SD is provided to the center server 2 from the second game machine 4B. The center server 2 may be appropriately configured by one server unit or the like, but as described above, the center server 2 is composed of a plurality of server units 2A, 2B, ... It includes one server unit 2A and a second server unit 2B. Of these, the production data SD provided by the second game machine 4B is acquired by the first server unit 2A. When the first server unit 2A (center server 2) acquires the production data SD, the first server unit 2A (center server 2) realizes the second venue production as described above at the normal event venue EF. Further, the first server unit 2A provides the acquired effect data SD to the second server unit 2B. When the second server unit 2B acquires the production data SD, the second server unit 2B realizes a unique venue production at the PB event venue EF based on the production data SD.

Specifically, since the PB event venue EF may have different equipment from the normal event venue EF as described above, the second server unit 2B is the production device 3 installed there at the PB event venue EF. Realize the production according to. Although various differences may occur in the PB event venue EF as compared with the normal event venue EF, in the example of FIG. 3, the same production equipment 3 is installed except for the game machine 4 and the camera 3E. Therefore, even at the PB event venue EF, it is possible to realize a venue production that is almost the same as the event venue EF.

On the other hand, neither the user U nor the game machine 4 exists in the PB event venue EF, and it is not necessary to realize the production according to these positions. Rather, because the game machine 4 or the like does not exist, a flashy production that supplements it may be preferable. Therefore, various unique venue effects may be realized in the PB event venue EF, but in the example of FIG. 3, unlike the above-mentioned second venue effect, all the lights of the light unit 3A are turned on, and the speakers 3B and the speaker 3B and The smoke device 3C also realizes a venue production that executes the production. In this case, the color scheme of the lights may be the same as or different from the color scheme of the lights in the second venue production. For example, when the color schemes of the lights match in the second venue production and the first venue production, and it is not possible to distinguish between the superiority of the second user U2 and the superiority of the first user U1 only by lighting, the light is the second venue production. It may be lit by a unique color scheme indicating the second user U2, which is different from the above. The same applies to the sound reproduced by the speaker 3B and the smoke generated by the smoke device 3C.

On the other hand, various images such as the shooting result of the camera 3E can be displayed on the monitor 3D as in the case of the second venue production. At the PB event venue EF, the importance of such images is particularly high because the game machine 4 and the like do not exist, but in the example of FIG. 4, the display of these images is omitted as in the example of FIG. Information similar to that of the second venue production is displayed, which conveys the superiority of the second user U2, which is "two user superiority". As an example, in this way, in the control service, the equipment of each event venue EF is taken into consideration, and a unique venue production according to the equipment is appropriately realized.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram for explaining an example of the control switching service included in the control service. The control switching service is a service for switching from automatic control executed by the center server 2 to manual control manually executed by an appropriate administrator such as an event operator. Depending on the event situation, manual control may be preferable to automatic control. In such a case, the center server 2 switches from automatic control to manual control via the control switching service. The center server 2 may appropriately determine the necessity of manual control according to various conditions such as instructions by the administrator based on the play situation, but as an example, the switching condition is used to determine the necessity. ..

The switching conditions may appropriately include various requirements, but as an example, when a game event is executed according to the event schedule at the event venue EF, each schedule included in the schedule or information included in the production data SD. Is included in the requirements. Specifically, the switching condition is satisfied when the game play status in the game event corresponds to a specific schedule among the schedules included in the event schedule. Alternatively, the switching condition is satisfied when the effect data SD provided from the game machine 4 providing the game event includes specific information that can be determined as the switching time. Then, the center server 2 executes switching from automatic control to manual control when the switching condition is satisfied. The example of FIG. 5 shows an example of a control switching service when switching to manual control is executed using such a switching condition. As shown in FIG. 5, in this case, the center server 2 executes switching between automatic control and manual control with reference to the event data ED or the effect data SD in order to realize the control switching service.

Specifically, the event data ED may manage various schedules related to the event and may include information on such various schedules, but in the example of FIG. 5, the game machine 4 provides the information. It contains information on the competition schedule of the competition games to be played, and the moderator schedule that intervenes at various times such as between those battles. The center server 2 refers to such an event data ED, and when the next schedule corresponds to the battle schedule, realizes the venue production through automatic control. The center server 2 can perform an appropriate effect as such a venue effect, but in the example of FIG. 5, of the two event venue EFs located above and below, the upper event venue EF shows, as shown in FIG. The first venue production as shown in the example is realized.

On the other hand, the center server 2 refers to the event data ED and executes switching from automatic control to manual control when the next schedule corresponds to the moderator schedule (an example of a specific schedule). Alternatively, the center server 2 refers to the effect data SD and executes the same switching when it is determined that it is time to switch from the automatic control to the manual control. The production data SD may be configured in various formats such as a simple program (so-called script) or data for a program. Therefore, various information included in the production data SD can function as specific information that can be determined as the switching time, but as an example, the switching instruction in the case of a simple program and the play status corresponding to the switching time in the case of data can be displayed. The information presented serves as such specific information. Then, when such specific information is included in the effect data SD, the center server 2 executes switching to manual control.

When switching from automatic control to manual control, manual control is permitted (allowed) at the event venue EF. That is, manual control is executed instead of automatic control as control of the effect device 3. Manual control may be appropriately realized, but in the example of FIG. 5, it is connected to the controller DC (it may be connected by an appropriate technique like the center server 2, but as an example, it is connected by a wired connection using various cables. It is realized via a book-type personal computer 5 (connected). That is, the event manager O executes the effect instruction to the book-type personal computer 5, and the controller DC controls the effect device 3 so as to execute the effect according to the instruction. For example, the moderator often announces the results of the battle, and it is necessary to adjust the production time appropriately depending on the circumstances of the announcement. Specifically, for example, when the winner is announced, it is often more exciting to set up a small reservoir before the announcement, but those who reflect the atmosphere of the venue or the individuality of the moderator during such a reservoir time. Tends to be preferable. The event manager O controls the production device 3 so that various venue productions are realized at a more preferable time according to such an atmosphere and the like.

Further, in the event venue EF, an appropriate venue production can be realized through manual control, but in the example of FIG. 5, as shown by the event venue EF on the lower side, the light unit 3A and the speaker 3B among the various production devices 3 are used. The production used is being executed. Specifically, the manager of the event venue EF instructed the lighting of the light unit 3A and the reproduction of the sound by the speaker 3B, and as a result, all the lights of the light unit 3A were turned on, and the speaker 3B responded to the instruction. Is playing. Further, the shooting result of the camera 3E or various images such as the game screen may be displayed on the monitor 3D, but these are omitted in the example of FIG. 5, and the moderator schedule is shown by the same manual control. Character information is displayed.

The center server 2 may appropriately switch from manual control to automatic control (restart of automatic control) according to various conditions as part of the control switching service, but as an example, when the restart condition is satisfied. The switch from automatic control to manual control is executed again so that automatic control resumes. The restart condition may be satisfied based on an appropriate schedule as in the switching condition, or based on appropriate information in the production data, for example, when the moderator schedule is completed (the next schedule may be a battle schedule), or It is satisfied when the production data includes information that can be determined as the switching time to automatic control. The control service includes such a control switching service.

Next, the details of the event service will be described with reference to FIG. The event service may execute various instructions or acquire various data as instructions and data for the event, but in the following, the provision of the production data SD is instructed and the acquisition is executed. explain. The instruction to provide the production data SD may be omitted. For example, the event service may be configured to unconditionally acquire the production data SD from all the game machines 4 at the event venue EF, but as an example, a part of the service may be configured. It is configured to execute the instruction provided to the game machine 4 of the above. The example of FIG. 6 shows an example of an event service when such an instruction is executed. In this case, as shown in FIG. 6, the center server 2 refers to the target identification data for specifying a part of the game machines 4 for which the effect data SD should be provided, and a part of the game of the event venue EF. Instruct the machine 4 to provide the production data SD. Then, the center server 2 realizes the above-mentioned control service based on the effect data SD acquired from some of these game machines 4.

Specifically, various data may appropriately function as target identification data as target identification data according to the content of the control service, etc., but in the example of FIG. 6, the event data ED, the effect data SD, and the effect data SD, and The device management data MD is functioning. In the event data ED, various schedules may be managed as described above, and these various schedules may be appropriately used to identify some game machines 4 as identification information, but as an example, a battle schedule is scheduled. The information is used to identify some game consoles 4. More specifically, when each game machine 4 provides a battle game, the battle may be realized in various formats (methods) such as a league battle format or a tournament format, but the event data ED includes each format. Information indicating the opponent or the game machine 4 for battle is described as a part of the information of the battle schedule. Then, such a game machine 4 for battle or a game machine 4 used by the opponent functions as a part of the game machine 4. That is, the center server 2 refers to the information on the battle schedule, and when a plurality of game machines 4 (two in the case of a one-to-one battle, or a plurality of battles are executed) used for the battle in the next battle, Alternatively, when a group battle is executed, two or more game machines 4) are specified as some game machines 4, and these plurality of game machines 4 are instructed to provide the effect data SD.

When the center server 2 instructs to provide the effect data SD, the plurality of game machines 4 may appropriately provide the effect data SD, and for example, even if all the plurality of game machines 4 always provide the effect data SD. Alternatively, only the game machine 4 corresponding to the specific situation may provide the effect data SD only in a specific situation such as a situation in which the play situation is advantageous. The same applies when other target identification data is used for identifying a part of the game machines 4 and instructing the game machines 4.

On the other hand, the effect data SD is used when it is necessary to further specify a part of the game machines 4 to be provided when the target to be provided of the effect data SD has already been determined. NS. For example, when a plurality of game machines 4 that execute the first round in the tournament format are already specified as some game machines 4 as the target of providing the production data SD, play in an advantageous situation among these game machines 4. It may be used to identify the game machine 4 that is advancing. The production data SD may also be used to identify an appropriate game machine 4 corresponding to various play situations, but as an example, the game machine 4 corresponding to the winner among the plurality of game machines 4 that execute the first round. Used to identify (opponent).

The effect data SD may be configured in various formats as described above. Therefore, various information included in the production data SD can be used to identify some game machines 4, but as an example, information instructing the production of the winner or information indicating the victory of the battle is some game machines. Used to identify 4. Further, some of the specified game machines 4 may be appropriately required to provide the effect data SD, for example, the effect data SD including more detailed information (effect data SD having a different amount of information). It may be requested, but as an example, it is required to continue to provide the production data SD including the same information. As a result, the center server 2 refers to the production data SD, identifies the game machines 4 corresponding to the winners of the first round, and continues to play against those game machines 4 in the next battle (for example, the second round). Instruct the provision of the production data SD so that the production data SD is provided.

Further, the device management data MD may appropriately include various information for managing the types of the production devices 3 of each event venue EF, and these various types of information are appropriate for identifying some of the various game machines 4. May be used for. For example, the device management data MD may include information on the position of each effect device 3, and in this case, the specific effect device 3 is set based on the information on this position and the data for managing the position of each game machine 4. A close game machine 4 may be specified as a part of the game machines 4. As the data for managing the position of the game machine 4, data different from the device management data MD may be used, or the device management data MD may be used, but as an example, the device management data MD may be used. When the position information of each game machine 4 is included, the position information functions as the identification information. Further, this position information may be appropriately used for identifying various game machines 4, but as an example, it is used for specifying the game machine 4 included in the shooting range of the camera 3E. That is, the center server 2 refers to the shooting result of the camera 3E and the device management data MD, specifies the game machine 4 included in the shooting range of the camera 3E as a part of the game machines 4, and adds the effect data SD to these. Instruct the offer.

An appropriate game machine 4 may be specified as a part of the game machines 4 based on the event data ED, the effect data SD, and the device management data MD. For example, as some game machines 4, not only the game machines 4 in the same event venue EF, but also a plurality of game machines 4 installed in different event venue EFs when a plurality of event venue EFs are prepared are specified. May be done. In this way, the appropriate game machine 4 may be specified as a part of the game machines 4, but in the example of FIG. 6, when each game machine 4 of the different event venue EF is specified as a part of the game machines 4, and Both cases where each game machine 4 of the same event venue EF is specified as a part of the game machines 4 are shown.

Specifically, in the example of FIG. 6, two event venue EFs including one game machine 4 specified as a part of the game machines 4 (hereinafter, may be referred to as the upper two event venue EFs). , And one event venue EF including two game machines 4 specified as some game machines 4 (hereinafter, may be referred to as an event venue EF below) are shown in order from the top. For example, a plurality of users U may play against each other via a plurality of game machines 4 installed in different event venues EFs. In this case, the opponent and the game machines 4 used by the opponents may play against the plurality of event venues EFs. It is located so as to straddle, and a match is realized between different event venues EF. The above two event venues EF both include a plurality of game machines 4, each of which is used in a battle. That is, the upper two event venues EF include two game machines 4 that compete with each other in the battle event. Therefore, the center server 2 is based on, for example, the event data ED or the production data SD, and the two game machines 4 located at the upper two event venue EFs (the leftmost game machine 4 of the upper event venue EF). , And the second game machine 4) from the left of the event venue EF in the middle is specified as a part of the game machines 4. Then, the center server 2 instructs these game machines 4 to provide the effect data SD.

On the other hand, the event venue EF below also includes a plurality of game machines 4, but among them, the shooting range CR of the camera 3E includes only two game machines 4 near the center. In other words, the shooting range CR of the camera 3E is controlled so as to shoot only two game machines 4 near the center of the plurality of game machines 4. In this case, the center server 2 identifies these two game machines 4 as a part of the game machines 4 based on, for example, the shooting range CR of the camera 3E and the device management data MD. Specifically, the center server 2 first determines the shooting range CR based on the shooting conditions of the camera 3E. Next, the center server 2 identifies the game machine 4 (two game machines 4 near the center) in which the position information included in the shooting range CR is described in the device management data MD as a part of the game machines 4. do. Then, the center server 2 instructs these game machines 4 to provide the effect data SD.

Further, the center server 2 may appropriately execute the venue production as described above based on the production data SD acquired from some of the game machines 4, and some game machines may be used for such venue production. 4 may include an effect of shining a spot through a light unit 3A or the like, but if the game machine 4 is provided with an effect device such as a light, some of the effect devices of the game machine 4 may be further added. You may control it. That is, the venue production is not limited to the production device 3, and may be realized through various devices, and such a device may include the game machine 4. Such control of the game machine 4 may be appropriately executed, but as an example, it is shown (or emphasized) that the center server 2 corresponds to some game machines 4 in order to produce the same effect as the spot. ) Control the production equipment of some game machines 4 so as to execute the production. As an example, the event service is configured to realize the provision instruction of the production data SD such as these and the acquisition thereof.

Next, the details of the effect data SD, the effect control data CD, the event data ED, and the device management data MD will be described. As described above, the effect to be executed by the effect device 3 is determined according to various play situations such as a battle schedule. Therefore, the effect data SD includes various information related to such a play situation. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the effect data SD. The effect data SD may be configured as a simple program as described above, but in the example of FIG. 7, a case where the effect data SD is configured as program data is shown. In this case, as shown in FIG. 7, the effect data SD includes an effect record SDR that manages the game play status in association with each opponent (user U). Further, in order to realize such management, the effect record SDR includes, for example, "user", "character", "action", and "situation" information.

The "user" is information for identifying a user U (an opponent) who is playing a game. In "user", appropriate information that can identify each user U may be described, but as an example, information of a unique user ID for each user U is described in order to identify each user U. Such a user ID may be a user name for an event or a user number for an event limited to an event. Alternatively, if there is a user ID (ID that identifies each user U, not limited to the event) used when playing the game machine 4 installed in various facilities, such a user ID is used. May be done.

The "character" is information for identifying a character that appears during game play. In the "character", appropriate information that can identify each character may be described, but as an example, information of a unique character ID for each character is described in order to identify each character. Further, in the "character", information of a character ID corresponding to an appropriate character (a plurality of characters may be used) appearing in the game being played may be described, but as an example, the user U plays a game through the character. When playing, the information of the character ID corresponding to such a character (the character corresponding to the user U as a so-called player character) is described.

The "action" is information for identifying an action (action) via the character of each user U. In the "action", appropriate information that identifies various actions performed by the character may be described, but as an example, the user performs an action or the like performed by each character, or a user for realizing such a technique or the like. Information indicating the operation performed by U is described.

The "situation" is information for identifying the situation in the game being played. In the "situation", various information for identifying the play situation (at least the situation related to the venue production) may be described. For example, such information includes the number of stages when the game is divided into a plurality of stages (the selected stage may be used in the case of the selection format), the number of innings in the case of a baseball game, and the position of the ball in a soccer game or the like. If there is a value related to the match such as the position of the ball, the number of points scored, or the HP (hit point) in the game in which the offense and defense are switched according to the situation, the information on the remaining amount may be appropriately described. In addition, the battle result (including the superiority or inferiority of the ranking, inferiority, superiority, etc.) may be appropriately judged from the score, etc., and separately or instead, the information on the battle result is such information. It may be used as. In the "situation", such information is appropriately described in response to the request of the venue production. In the production record SDR, such information is recorded so as to be related to each other. Then, this information is appropriately used for various venue productions and the like. In this example, the play situation information described in "situation" functions as the production information or play information of the present invention.

On the other hand, the effect data SD may be configured as a simple program, in which case the above-mentioned "user", "character", "action", and "situation" information is described in, for example, a script format. .. Script format data is a well-known technique, but like a program, it is data that is executed so that the compilation process for a computer is omitted (it is appropriately processed in the background or the like and at least looks like that). In the case of script-formatted data, such a compilation process can be omitted, so that relatively complicated instructions can be realized earlier. Therefore, a relatively complicated play situation can be reflected in the production. The effect data SD may be generated so that various formats such as such script format data or simple data can be appropriately used. For example, even if it is generated as normal data when a simple venue effect corresponding to a simple play situation is executed, and as script format data when a more complicated situation and venue effect are executed, respectively. good.

The production data SD is not limited to the above-mentioned information, and appropriate information may be managed in response to a request for venue production or the like. For example, some of the above information may be omitted, or conversely, various other information may be added. For example, the housing ID described later corresponding to each game machine 4 (used by each user U) may be used instead of the "user" information or as the above-mentioned "user" information. Similarly, for example, in a battle-type game, a battle (match) that manages the information of the opponent (for example, the user ID of the opponent, or the user ID of the opponent in order to identify such an opponent or the game machine 4). ) Each unique opponent ID, etc.) information may be included. Further, for example, the game machine 4 may execute the instruction of the venue production via the production data SD. In this case, the production data SD is included in the information (effect control data CD) of the "effect type" described later. Information) and the like, which may include information instructing the production. In this case, information instructing the production, such as information on the "effect type", functions as the production information of the present invention. Further, for example, when the effect data SD is used to identify a part of the game machines 4 in the event service, the effect data SD includes information such as a housing ID for specifying the game machine 4 of the provider. good. In this case, the "situation" information of the effect data SD and the information of the housing ID thereof function as the corresponding information of the present invention and the game machine identification information, respectively.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the effect control data CD. The effect control data CD may appropriately include various information for controlling the effect of the effect device 3, but in the example of FIG. 8, the effect realized at each event venue EF is set to the effect device 3 in a predetermined unit. An example of an effect control data CD when it is divided and managed for each unit (type) is shown. Further, the effect control data CD may be appropriately configured according to, for example, the configuration of the effect data SD (for example, a configuration such as a simple program or simple data), but the example of FIG. 8 shows the effect data SD. Shows an example of an effect control data CD when is configured as mere data. In this case, as shown in FIG. 8, the effect control data CD includes an effect control record CDR that manages the effect device 3 as a type of effect by dividing the effect device 3 into predetermined units for each event venue EF. Further, in order to realize such management, the effect control record CDR includes, for example, information of "venue ID", "effect type", "target device", "effect details", and "applicable conditions". ..

The "venue ID" is information indicating a unique venue ID for each event venue EF in order to identify each event venue EF when a plurality of event venue EFs exist. The “effect type” is information for specifying the type of effect (venue effect) to be executed through each effect device 3. Appropriate information may be described as such information in the "effect type", but as an example, information of a unique effect ID for each effect type is described in order to identify each effect. The “target device” is information for specifying the effect device 3 for realizing each type of effect. Appropriate information may be described as such information in the "target device", but as an example, the type of the effect device 3 is used to identify the type of each effect device 3 (for example, the light unit 3A, the speaker 3B, etc.). Unique device ID information is described for each.

Similarly, the "effect details" is information for specifying the effect (operation) to be executed by each effect device 3 for each type of effect. Appropriate information may be described as such information in the “detailed effect”, but as an example, information on appropriate parameters is described. Specifically, for example, when the information for specifying the first venue production is described in the "effect type", the information for specifying the light unit 3A, the speaker 3B, and the monitor 3D is described in the "target device". NS. Then, in the "detailed effect", a numerical value indicating the two lights on the left side of the light unit 3A, a numerical value indicating the lighting of the two lights, a numerical value indicating the color scheme, and a numerical value indicating the intensity thereof are described as parameter information. .. Further, a numerical value indicating a musical piece to be reproduced from the speaker 3B and a numerical value indicating the volume thereof are also described in "Details of production" as parameter information. Similarly, a numerical value indicating an image to be displayed on the monitor 3D (for example, a numerical value indicating a game screen, a numerical value indicating a shooting result of the camera 3E, a numerical value indicating various fixed phrases such as "first user superiority", etc.), and a numerical value thereof. Numerical values indicating the display mode (position, range, numerical values indicating layout and the like in the case of combination with other images, etc.) are also described in "Production details" as parameter information. That is, each effect device 3 is divided into predetermined units according to the information of the "effect type" and the "target device", and the specific effect according to the unit is defined by the "effect details". The same applies when other productions such as the second venue production are performed.

On the other hand, in the case of a production corresponding to the composition of a plurality of productions such as the third venue production, the production corresponding to such composition is separately determined by the "production type", "target device", and "production details". Although it may be defined, as an example, information indicating the production type to be synthesized, such as the first venue production and the second venue production, is described in the "effect type". In this case, the information of the "target device" and the "detailed effect" may be omitted, or the information corresponding to the combination of the first venue effect and the second venue effect may be described.

The "applicable condition" is information indicating the applicable condition to which each type of effect should be applied (executed). In the "applicable conditions", information indicating various conditions may be appropriately described in response to a request for venue production, etc., but for example, when the first user U1 gives a score difference of a certain amount or more (in a predominant situation). (One example), if you own the ball in a ball game such as soccer (another example of a dominant situation), if it is a fighting type game, you can lead the physical strength (for example, HP), or if the match is over, etc. Information indicating the play status of is described. Further, for example, the situation such as a physical fitness lead may be further divided into detailed situations such as a physical fitness lead. Further, for example, a physical fitness lead may be described as an "applicable condition" associated with the normal event venue EF, and a physical fitness lead may be described as an "applicable condition" associated with the PB event venue EF. That is, different applicable conditions may be associated with each event venue EF. Then, different venue productions may be realized for each event venue EF according to the common production data SD in which the information on the remaining amount of the physical strength value is described in the "situation". As described above, different venue productions may be realized for each event venue EF depending on the characteristics of the event venue EF, but this may be realized through such differences in "applicable conditions". In this case, different (more detailed) venue effects for each event venue EF are realized by the same effect data SD via such "applicable conditions" (effect control data CD). In other words, the production control data CD fulfills the role of absorbing the difference in venue production for each event venue EF through the "application conditions", the role of defining different venue productions for each event venue EF, and the realization of the different venue productions. It may play a role of directing. On the other hand, the production data SD may play a role of conveying the basis for determining different venue productions through the common play situation of such "situations".

The above-mentioned information is recorded in the effect control record CDR so as to be associated with each other. Then, these pieces of information are appropriately used for controlling the production device 3 that realizes various venue productions. The production control data CD is not limited to the above-mentioned information, and appropriate information may be managed in response to a request for venue production or the like. For example, some of the above information may be omitted, or conversely, various other information may be added. For example, when there is only one event venue EF, the information of "venue ID" may be omitted. Further, for example, when the effect data SD includes information on the "effect type" and the effect data SD indicates a specific type of effect, the information on the "applicable condition" may be omitted. In this example, the information of the venue ID described in the "venue ID" functions as the venue identification information of the present invention. Further, when the effect data SD does not include information instructing a specific effect, it is described in the play situation (specific play situation) information described in the "applicable condition" of this example and in the "effect type". The type of effect (or a combination thereof including "target device" and "details of effect") functions as the effect information of the present invention and the corresponding effect, respectively. On the other hand, when the effect data SD includes information instructing a specific effect, the information on the type of effect described in the "effect type" of this example, the information on the device ID described in the "target device", and the "effect". The combination with the parameter information described in "Details" functions as the effect information of the present invention and the corresponding effect, respectively.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the event data ED. The event data ED may manage various schedules related to the progress of the event, but in the example of FIG. 9, when the switching condition includes each schedule of the event schedule in the requirement, when each schedule is managed. An example of event data ED is shown. In this case, as shown in FIG. 9, the event data ED includes an event record EDR for managing each schedule for each event. Further, in order to realize such management, the event record EDR includes, for example, information of "event ID", "venue ID", "plan", "target", and "progress".

The "venue ID" is information indicating the above-mentioned venue ID. The "event ID" is information indicating a unique event ID for each event in order to identify each event. "Schedule" is information for identifying various schedules included in each event. The event of the event venue EF includes a game event, and the game event progresses according to the playing situation of the game. Therefore, the event schedule includes a play status schedule corresponding to the game play status. In this case, the "schedule" describes information for identifying such a play situation schedule. Specifically, for example, when a tournament-style battle event is executed, information for specifying each play status schedule such as the first round, the second round, the semifinal, the final, and the moderator is described in the "plan". In this case, the play status schedule indicating the first round, the second round, the semi-final, or the final, and the play status schedule indicating the moderator function as the above-mentioned battle schedule and the moderator schedule, respectively. Appropriate information may be described in "Schedule" to identify these schedules, but as an example, information on a unique schedule ID for each schedule is provided to identify each schedule such as the first round and the second round. Will be described.

On the other hand, the "object" is information for identifying an object to be used as an object of each schedule. Various events may be executed at the event venue EF, and the schedule of the various events may be managed by the event data ED as appropriate, but in the following, the schedule of the game event (play status schedule) is described as such an event. The case where it is managed will be described. In this case, in the "target", information for identifying each game machine 4 as a target of each schedule is described. For example, in the schedule corresponding to the forward final, information for specifying each game machine 4 to be played in the semi-final is described. The same applies to the first round and the like. On the other hand, when it is planned to correspond to the moderator, information indicating that there is no target may be described in the "target", or information indicating the moderator may be described. Further, in the "target", appropriate information may be described as information for identifying each game machine 4, but as an example, a unique housing ID for each game machine 4 is used to identify each game machine 4. Information is described.

The “progress” is information for identifying the schedule currently in progress among the schedules included in the event data ED. In "Progress", appropriate information may be described as such information, but as an example, at least three of the schedules that have already been completed (implemented), the schedules that are currently in progress, and the schedules that have not been implemented are distinguished. Information is described. Then, based on the "progress" information, it is managed whether each schedule described in the "schedule" of the event data ED belongs to these implemented, in progress, or not implemented. In the event record EDR, such information is recorded so as to be related to each other. Then, this information is appropriately used for providing various services such as an effect switching service.

The event data ED is not limited to the above-mentioned information, and appropriate information may be managed in response to a request for a production switching service or the like. For example, some of the above information may be omitted, or conversely, various other information may be added. The information described in "Progress" in this example functions as progress information of the present invention. In addition, the information corresponding to the play status schedule among the schedules described in the “schedule” functions as the play status schedule of the present invention. Further, among the play status schedules described in the "schedule", the information corresponding to the next battle schedule scheduled to be the moderator functions as a predetermined play status schedule of the present invention. On the other hand, when the event data ED is used to identify some game machines 4 through the event service, the information described in the "plan" and the housing ID information described in the "target" of this example are present. It functions as correspondence information of the invention and game machine identification information, respectively.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the device management data MD. The device management data MD may include various information for managing the effect device 3 installed in the event venue EF as described above. Therefore, the device management data MD can produce smoke at each event venue EF when there are a plurality of event venue EFs (for example, at the event venue EF where the smoke device 3C exists, smoke can be produced and spotted. It is used for management of each event venue EF, such that it is possible to produce a spot on a specific game machine 4 at the event venue EF where the light exists. The example of FIG. 10 shows a case where the device management data MD is further used for managing the position of each game machine 4 in the event venue EF. In this case, as shown in FIG. 10, the device management data MD includes a device management record MDR for managing the effect device 3 installed at each event venue EF. Further, in order to realize such management, the device management record MDR includes information of "venue ID", "installed device", "housing ID", and "arrangement".

The "venue ID" and the "housing ID" are information indicating the above-mentioned venue ID and the housing ID, respectively. Further, the "installed equipment" is information for identifying the production equipment 3 installed in each event venue EF. Appropriate information may be described as such information in the "installed device", but as an example, a device unique to each type of the effect device 3 for specifying each effect device 3 such as the light unit 3A and the speaker 3B. ID information is described. The "arrangement" is information for specifying the position of each game machine 4. Appropriate information may be described as such information in "arrangement", but as an example, the coordinates when the coordinates are set in a predetermined range (for example, the stage where the game machine 4 is installed) in the event venue EF are shown. Information is described. The device management record MDR records such information so as to be related to each other. Then, this information is appropriately used for providing various services such as event services. The device management data MD is not limited to the above-mentioned information, and appropriate information may be managed in response to a request for an event service or the like. For example, some of the above information may be omitted, or conversely, various other information may be added. Further, when the device management data MD is used to identify some game machines 4 through the event service, the position information described in the "arrangement" and the "housing ID" of this example are described. The information of the housing ID functions as the corresponding information of the present invention and the game machine identification information, respectively.

Next, the target identification process, the effect process, the control switching process, and the restart process will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 14. The target identification process is a process for identifying the device to be referred among the various devices installed at the event venue EF. As such a device, an appropriate device installed at the event venue EF may be used, but the example of FIG. 11 shows a target identification process when the game machine 4 is used. More specifically, the example of FIG. 11 shows an example of specifying the target for providing the effect data SD and the target specifying process when the specific instruction is executed. In this case, when an appropriate start condition such as when a predetermined operation for instructing the specification of the production data SD provision target is executed, the game machine service management unit 25 performs the target identification process of FIG. Start, and first acquire the data for specifying the target (step S101). Various types of data can function as target identification data, and as an example, event data ED, effect data SD, and device management data MD function. Therefore, the game machine service management unit 25 acquires these event data EDs, effect data SDs, or device management data MDs as target identification data. The case where the event data ED is acquired as the target identification data will be described below.

Subsequently, the game machine service management unit 25 refers to the event data ED acquired in step S101 and determines the next schedule (step S102). Specifically, the game machine service management unit 25 realizes this determination by referring to the "plan" and "progress" information of the event data ED. Next, the game machine service management unit 25 identifies the game machine 4 that functions as the target of the specified schedule (step S103). The target of each schedule may be managed as appropriate, but as an example, it is managed via the "target" information of the event data ED. Therefore, the game machine service management unit 25 realizes such identification of the target by referring to the information of the “target” of the event data ED. Specifically, the game machine service management unit 25 specifies the game machine 4 specified by the “target” of the event data ED as the target game machine 4 to be specified in step S102. In this case, when a plurality of event venue EFs exist, the game machine service management unit 25 may further specify each event venue EF in which the target game machine 4 is installed by referring to the "venue ID". good.

Subsequently, the game machine service management unit 25 instructs the game machine 4 specified in step S104 to provide the effect data SD (step S104). Then, after this instruction, the game machine service management unit 25 ends the target identification process this time. As a result, the target of the production data SD is specified based on the target identification data from among the plurality of game machines 4 installed in the event venue EF (in the case of a plurality of event venue EFs, a plurality of event venue EFs). Will be done. More specifically, among the schedules managed by the event data ED, the game machine 4 corresponding to the next schedule is specified as the target for providing the production data SD. Then, they are actually instructed to provide the effect data SD. As a result, the service for the event is realized.

The production process is a process for realizing a venue production based on the production data SD. The game machine 4 may appropriately generate the effect data SD according to various conditions such as when the game play situation corresponds to a specific situation, but in the example of FIG. 12, there is an instruction from the center server 2. The effect processing when the game machine 4 generates the effect data SD at a predetermined cycle during the game is shown. Further, in the example of FIG. 12, a plurality of game machines 4 are specified through target identification processing such as two game machines 4 in a battle, and the production processing is performed when the provision of the production data SD is instructed to them. Shown. In the example of FIG. 12, the process mainly executed by the control unit 31 of the game machine 4 is shown as the game machine 4, and the process mainly executed by the control unit 21 of the center server 2 is shown as the center server 2. There is.

In this case, as shown in FIG. 12, each game machine 4 (data management unit 44) starts the effect processing of FIG. 12 at a predetermined cycle, and first generates the effect data SD (step S201). Subsequently, each game machine 4 transmits the generated production data SD to the center server 2 (step S202). Then, after the transmission, each game machine 4 ends the current production process.

On the other hand, when the effect data SD is transmitted from each game machine 4 (or when the control of the effect device 3 is in the automatic control state), the center server 2 (device service management unit 24) shows FIG. The effect processing is started, and the effect data SD is first acquired (step S301). Subsequently, the center server 2 determines whether or not the application conditions for applying (executing) the effect are satisfied based on the effect data SD (step S302). Various information included in the production data SD may be used as a requirement of the application condition in response to a request for production to be realized, for example, to realize a specific venue production at a predetermined action, and based on such information. Whether or not the applicable conditions are satisfied (whether or not the effect can be added) may be appropriately determined, but as an example, the information of "situation" is used as the requirement of the applicable conditions. Specifically, the center server 2 refers to the "situation" information of the production data SD and the "applicable condition" information of the production control data CD, and refers to the status of the game being played (the status described in the "situation"). Determines whether or not corresponds to a specific situation in which the effect should be executed (conditions described in "Applicable conditions"). At this time, the center server 2 determines that the applicable conditions are not satisfied when the game situation does not correspond to a specific situation, and that the applicable conditions are satisfied when the game situation corresponds to a specific situation. Then, when the application condition is not satisfied (when the situation of the game does not correspond to a specific situation), the center server 2 skips the subsequent processing and ends the current production processing.

On the other hand, when the applicable conditions are satisfied (the situation of the game corresponds to a specific situation), the center server 2 determines the effect to be realized through the effect device 3 (step S303). This determination is realized based on the "applicable conditions" referred to in step S302. Specifically, the center server 2 specifies information on the "effect type", "target device", and "effect details" associated with the "applicable conditions" corresponding to the situation of the game being played in the effect control data CD. Then, the effect realized by them (the type of effect corresponding to the "effect type") is determined as the effect to be realized. When a plurality of event venue EFs exist, the center server 2 refers to the information of the "venue ID" of the effect control data CD, and executes such determination for each event venue EF.

Subsequently, the center server 2 determines whether or not the adjustment condition is satisfied (step S304). The adjustment conditions may be appropriately configured according to a request for the production to be realized, but as an example, when the production based on the production data SD (the production specified in step S303) competes among the plurality of game machines 4. , Or if it overlaps, it will be satisfied. Therefore, the center server 2 determines whether or not the effect specified in step S303 conflicts with or overlaps with the effect based on the other effect data SD.

Specifically, in the center server 2, when the effect device 3 for realizing the effect specified in step S303 is the same as the effect device 3 for realizing the effect based on other effect data SD, or when the effect time is different. If they match, it is determined that there is a conflict or duplication. For example, in a soccer game, a production of a user U who has a ball (hereinafter, may be referred to as a production for a ball) and a production of a user U who has a large number of goals (number of points) (hereinafter, may be referred to as a production for superiority). If both of these are specified in the "applicable conditions" and are applied at the same time, it is judged that these effects are duplicated. Further, when the effect devices 3 required for the ball effect and the superior effect are duplicated, it is determined that these effects compete with each other. Alternatively, in the case of one victory, the "applicable conditions" may specify a plurality of situations in which one is superior, the other is inferior, and the situation corresponds to the result of the match. In this case, since it is considered that the effects corresponding to these are required at the same time, it may be determined that the effects are duplicated or conflicting.

When the adjustment conditions are satisfied (there is a conflict or duplication between the effects), the center server 2 adjusts the effects (competitions or overlapping effects) that satisfy the adjustment conditions (step S305). This adjustment may be appropriately realized by shifting the production time or giving priority to one of them, but it is realized by synthesizing those productions as an example. Specifically, for example, by synthesizing the first effect and the second effect based on the information of the first effect and the second effect described in the "effect type" of the effect control data CD, the third venue of the example of FIG. When the effect is realized, the center server 2 synthesizes the first effect and the second effect by this adjustment. Further, the center server 2 appropriately adjusts the display of the monitor 3D according to a predetermined rule. As a result, the center server 2 realizes the third venue production of the example of FIG.

Alternatively, for example, when the smoke generation by the smoke device 3C and the reproduction of a predetermined sound by the speaker 3B are specified by the information of the "effect type" or the like as the above-mentioned ball effect and superior effect, these are combined. , The effect of step S303 (the effect corresponding to either the generation of smoke or the reproduction of the predetermined sound) is adjusted to the effect of executing both the generation of smoke and the reproduction of the predetermined sound. Further, as a ball effect and a dominant effect, in addition to the generation of these smokes and the reproduction of a predetermined sound, when the lighting of the light by the light unit 3A is specified for both effects, the lighting has the same color scheme. If there is, the brightness of the lighting (a parameter indicating the illuminance) is doubled, and if the colors are different, the colors are mixed, and so on. Further, when a plurality of superior situations, the other inferior situation, and the situation corresponding to the battle result are specified, they may be appropriately adjusted by synthesis or selection of any one based on a predetermined standard. ..

On the other hand, if the adjustment conditions are not satisfied (there is no conflict or duplication between the effects), or after the adjustment in step S305, the center server 2 has the effect specified in step S303 or after the adjustment adjusted in step S305 (for example). The effect device 3 is controlled so as to execute the effect (after synthesis) (step S306). When a plurality of event venue EFs exist, the center server 2 executes this control for each event venue EF so that such an effect is executed in each event venue EF. Further, in this control, when the control of each effect device 3 is realized via the controller DC, the effect to be executed (the effect specified in step S303 or the effect after adjustment adjusted in step S305) is given to the controller DC. It is realized by instructing. Further, when the controller DC controls each effect device 3 based on the effect control data CD that defines the effect of the execution target, the center server 2 describes information such as "effect type" indicating the effect of the execution target. This control is realized by transmitting the effect control data CD to the controller DC so as to include the effect control record CDR (which may be a part excluding unnecessary parts such as "applicable conditions"). In this case, the center server 2 may generate an effect control data CD including an effect control record CDR corresponding to the adjusted effect as a part of the adjustment of the effect in step S305. Then, after such control, the center server 2 ends the current effect processing.

According to the procedure of FIG. 12, the production data SD is generated by the game machine 4 to be provided at a predetermined cycle, and is provided to the center server 2. Then, based on the effect data SD, the center server 2 determines whether or not the effect can be executed, and the effect is executed as appropriate. Specifically, when the game play situation corresponds to a specific situation, the production device 3 of the event venue EF is controlled so that the effect corresponding to the situation is realized. Further, when the effects based on the effect data SD conflict or overlap, the competing effects are adjusted, and the effect device 3 is controlled so as to realize the adjusted effect.

The control switching process is a process for switching the control of the effect device 3 from automatic control to manual control. Various conditions may be adopted as the conditions for switching from the automatic control to the manual control, but the example of FIG. 13 shows the control switching process when the above-mentioned switching conditions are adopted. Further, the switching condition includes appropriate information of the event data ED and the effect data SD in the requirement, and may be appropriately satisfied based on the information. However, in the example of FIG. 13, the switching condition requires the information of the event data ED. The case of including in is shown. The device service management unit 24 starts the control switching process of FIG. 13 every time the effect data SD is provided from, for example, the game machine 4, and first acquires the effect data SD (step S401).

Subsequently, the device service management unit 24 determines whether or not the update condition is satisfied (step S402). The update condition may be satisfied in various cases such as when an instruction by the administrator O (for example, an update instruction via a flag indicating the arrival of the moderator schedule or a flag indicating the insertion of the moderator schedule) is executed. , The event data ED may be appropriately satisfied in order to update, but as an example, it is satisfied when the game play status corresponds to the status to be updated. In addition, various situations in the game may be appropriately used as the situation to be updated, but as an example, the situation corresponding to the end of the battle is used. Specifically, the update condition is satisfied when the "situation" of the production data SD corresponds to the end of the battle. Therefore, the device service management unit 24 determines in step S402 whether or not the “situation” of the production data SD corresponds to the end of the battle. Then, when the update condition is not satisfied (when the match does not end), the device service management unit 24 skips the subsequent processing and ends the current control switching process.

On the other hand, when the update condition is satisfied (when the match ends), the device service management unit 24 updates the event data ED (step S403). Specifically, the device service management unit 24 adds the "progress" information of the "plan" corresponding to the ongoing battle to the information that has been implemented from the progress in the "plan" of the event data ED. The "progress" information of the "scheduled" next to the "scheduled" that was in progress is "changed (updated)" from unimplemented to in progress. Subsequently, the device service management unit 24 satisfies the switching condition. Whether or not it is determined (step S404). The switching condition may be appropriately satisfied based on each schedule of the event data ED, but as an example, the next schedule described in the “schedule” of the event data ED as described above. (Scheduled that "progress" information has changed during progress from unimplemented with this update) is satisfied when it corresponds to the moderator. Therefore, the device service management unit 24 has the "plan" of the event data ED and Refer to "Progress" to determine whether the next schedule (the schedule that changed during progress due to the update of step S403) corresponds to the moderator, and if the switching conditions are not met (the next schedule becomes the moderator). (If not applicable), the device service management unit 24 skips the subsequent processing and ends the current control switching process.

On the other hand, when the switching condition is satisfied (when the next schedule corresponds to the moderator), the device service management unit 24 executes switching from automatic control to manual control (step S405). For example, when the device service management unit 24 executes control of each effect device 3 via the controller DC, the device service management unit 24 instructs the controller DC to switch the control of each effect device 3 from automatic control to manual control. This switching is realized. Then, after this switching, the device service management unit 24 ends the control switching process this time. As a result, the effect of each effect device 3 can be switched from automatic control to manual control according to the switching condition. More specifically, when the next schedule corresponds to the moderator based on the event data ED, such switching from automatic control to manual control is executed. In other words, the control switching service is realized.

The restart process is a process for switching the control of the effect device 3 from manual control to automatic control. The automatic control is restarted when the restart condition is satisfied, for example. The restart condition may be appropriately satisfied based on various conditions for restarting the automatic control, but as an example, it is satisfied when the match (game play) is restarted after the moderator. The resumption of the battle may also be appropriately determined based on various information such as a resumption instruction (execution of a predetermined resumption operation) by the event manager O, but as an example, the information of the "situation" of the production data SD may be used. Judgment is based on. The example of FIG. 14 shows the restart process when it is determined whether or not the automatic control can be restarted based on the effect data SD.

When the effect data SD is acquired while the control of the effect device 3 is in the state of manual control, the device service management unit 24 starts the restart process of FIG. 14, and first determines whether or not the restart condition is satisfied (step S501). The restart condition is satisfied when the play situation corresponds to a match as described above as an example. Therefore, the device service management unit 24 realizes this determination by referring to the "situation" information of the production data SD and determining whether or not the game play status corresponds to the battle.

If the restart condition is not satisfied (the play status does not correspond to the battle), the device service management unit 24 maintains the current manual control (step S502). On the other hand, when the restart condition is satisfied (the play situation corresponds to the battle), the device service management unit 24 switches the control of the effect device 3 from the manual control to the automatic control (step S503). In other words, the device service management unit 24 switches the control of the effect device 3 so that the automatic control is restarted. Specifically, for example, when the control of each effect device 3 is executed via the controller DC, the device service management unit 24 causes the controller DC to switch the control of each effect device 3 from manual control to automatic control. By instructing, this switching is realized. Then, after the switching is executed in step S502 or in step S503, the device service management unit 24 ends the current restart process. As a result, switching from manual control to automatic control, in other words, resumption of automatic control is realized according to the resumption condition. More specifically, when the play status of the game corresponds to a battle (in other words, the moderator has changed to a battle) based on the production data SD, such automatic control restart is realized.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the effect data SD including various information according to the game play status is generated in the game machine 4 and appropriately provided to the center server 2. For example, the effect data SD including the "situation" information is generated as such information and provided to the center server 2. The center server 2 acquires the effect data SD and determines the effect associated with the "situation" information from a plurality of feasible effects based on the effect control data CD. Specifically, the center server 2 specifies the "applicable condition" in which the play situation corresponding to the play situation described in the "situation" is described, and the type of effect corresponding to the "applicable condition" ("effect"). The effect specified by the "type" or the like) is determined as the effect associated with the "situation". That is, the center server 2 determines the effect associated with the "situation" via the "applicable condition" as the effect to be executed. Then, the center server 2 actually controls the production device 3 of each event venue EF so that the production is realized. Therefore, the play status is reflected in the production of the production device 3 via the "situation" information of the production data SD. As a result, it is possible to control the production of the production device 3 according to the play status of the game.

Further, when the game machines 4 for which the production data SD is provided through the event service are limited to a part of the plurality of game machines 4, the play situation to be reflected in the production of the event venue EF is reflected in some game machines 4. Can be limited to those. Specifically, each event status (events such as the shooting status of the camera 3E in addition to the play status in the game) that can occur at the event venue EF among the plurality of game machines 4 based on the target identification data such as the event data ED. A part of the game machines 4 related to (various situations that can occur in the venue EF) are specified, and the production data SD including various information according to the game play situation is acquired from the part of the game machines 4. Then, the production device 3 of each event venue EF is actually controlled so that the production according to the various information is realized. That is, some game machines 4 related to each event situation are specified, and the play situation of some of the game machines 4 is reflected in the production of the production device 3 via the production data SD.

Specifically, only two game machines 4 that compete against each other among the plurality of game machines 4 at each event venue EF are specified, and the play status of the two game machines 4 is information on the "situation" of the production data SD. It will be reflected in the venue production through. Alternatively, among the plurality of game machines 4, the game machine 4 included in the shooting range CR of the camera 3E, that is, the game machine 4 shot by the camera 3E is specified as a part of the game machines 4 and reflected in the venue production. .. Therefore, it is possible to control the production of the production equipment according to the game play status of some of these game machines 4. As a result, for example, the play of these two game machines 4 in the battle or the game machine 4 photographed by the camera 3E can be spotlighted (attention is directed).

Further, when a plurality of event venue EFs exist, the center server 2 realizes the above-mentioned effect for each event venue EF. Specifically, the production equipment 3 installed at each event venue EF and the production that can be realized by the production equipment 3 are managed via the production control data CD. Then, the center server 2 specifies the production to be executed for each event venue EF while referring to the production control data CD, and actually realizes the production. As a result, it is possible to realize a production according to each event venue EF. For example, the PB event venue EF is different from the normal event venue EF in terms of equipment such as the production equipment 3, and as a result, the required production is often different. Even in such a case, it is possible to realize the original production required for the public viewing venue based on the production equipment 3 installed in the PB event venue EF.

Further, when the control switching service is provided, the control of the effect device 3 can be switched from the automatic control to the manual control according to the switching condition. The switching condition is a condition based on the play situation. Therefore, the play status can be reflected in the switching from the automatic control to the manual control via the switching condition. Specifically, in a situation where it is relatively easy to plan a production in advance, such as a battle, automatic control of the production device 3 is realized. On the other hand, in a situation where a flexible production such as a moderator is relatively required, the switching condition is satisfied, and the control of the production device 3 is switched from automatic control to manual control. In this way, the control of the production device can be switched between the automatic control and the manual control according to the game play situation. In addition, after switching to manual control, manual control is maintained until the restart condition is satisfied, but if the restart condition uses the play status such as the schedule of the event data ED, the play status is also used to restart the automatic control. Can be reflected. As a result, automatic control can be realized in a play situation suitable for relatively automatic control, and manual control can be realized in a play situation in which relatively manual control is preferable.

In the above embodiment, the device service management unit 24 of the center server 2 functions as the data acquisition means, the effect determination means, and the device control means of the present invention by executing the process of FIG. Specifically, the device service management unit 24 executes the process of step S306 as a data acquisition means by executing the process of step S301 of FIG. 12, and as an effect determination means by executing the process of step S303. As a result, each function as a device control means. Further, the game machine service management unit 25 of the center server 2 functions as the target identification means of the present invention by executing the process of step S103 of FIG. Further, the device service management unit 24 functions as a condition determination means, a control switching means, and an information acquisition means of the present invention by executing the control switching process shown in FIG. Specifically, the device service management unit 24 executes the process of step S405 as an information acquisition means by executing the process of step S401 of FIG. 13 and as a condition determination means by executing the process of step S404. As a result, each functions as a control switching means.

The present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned form, and may be carried out in a form in which appropriate modifications or changes are made. For example, in the above-described form, a production that conveys the superiority of one user U, such as the first venue production, is realized as the venue production. However, the present invention is not limited to such a form. For example, when the game machine 4 provides a game that virtually realizes a ball game such as soccer or tennis, such an effect indicating the position of the ball may be realized as a venue effect. Specifically, for example, in the case of a tennis game, when the ball is hit back from the first user U1 to the second user U2 in the example of FIG. 3, the position of the ball gradually toward the second user U2 from the first user U1. The effect of moving the light that gradually lights from the left to the right may be realized. In this case, the effect data SD may include information indicating the position of the ball (for example, coordinate data of the ball in the game) as, for example, "situation" information or other information.

Further, in the above-described form, as an example of the event service, the instruction and acquisition of the production data SD are shown. However, the event service is not limited to such a form. As described above, the event service may include various services that execute processing related to the event by using the game machine 4. For example, when the game machine 4 is included in the venue production device as described above (each game machine 4 is used as a part of the venue production), in other words, each game machine 4 is a part of the production equipment. When functioning, various controls for each game machine 4 for realizing the venue production may be realized through the event service. Each game machine 4 may realize various venue effects through the event service. For example, the monitor 47 of each game machine 4 (if the monitor 47 includes a monitor for venue effects in addition to the monitor for the game screen, the monitor may also be used. A production that provides various information through (good) may be realized. Specifically, for example, the game machine 4 used for the next battle displays information indicating the next opponent (user U) specified based on the battle result (play status) and the event data ED on the monitor 47. May be presented through.

Further, when the first opponent (or the game machine 4 for battle) is managed via, for example, event data ED, the information of the next opponent may include the information of the first opponent. good. Therefore, the play status of the game may include not only the status during and after the play but also the status before the play. In this case, for example, the situation before the play includes a situation indicating before the match such as the first time. Similarly, the information indicating the situation before such play indicates, for example, the game machine 4 to be used in the next (including the first) match (for example, the first match of the first round, the third match of the first round, etc.). Information (including information indicating the location in the event venue EF), information indicating the event venue EF (if there are multiple) where the next match will be executed, information indicating the start time of the next match, etc. May be included. That is, each game machine 4 has information indicating these next game machines 4 (for example, if a number is assigned to the next game machine 4, the number, or the next game machine 4) as a part of the venue production. A map showing the route to and the like) and the like may be presented on the monitor 47.

Further, for example, when information indicating the next game machine 4 is presented, only a part of the plurality of game machines 4 installed in the event venue EF (for example, the game machine 4 of the winner of this competition) is the venue. When used for directing (presentation of information), some such game machines 4 may be identified through event services. Specifically, for example, when the first opponent, the battle start time (and the corresponding game machine 4), etc. are managed by the event data ED, some games based on such event data ED. The identification of the machine 4 and the control of a part of the game machine 4 may be realized through the event service. Similarly, for example, when the position of each game machine 4 is managed by the device management data MD, the identification of the route based on the device management data MD and its presentation may be realized through the event service. .. Alternatively, similar control and the like may be realized through a device control service so that each game machine 4 is positioned as a part of the production device. If there are multiple event venue EFs, or if there are multiple sets of game machines 4 in the event venue EF, where should the user ∪ who is competing play the match? There is a possibility that it will disappear. In such a case, as a result of getting lost, there is a possibility that the player will be disqualified in time for the start time of the match. Similarly, it can be difficult to tell where the match the viewer wants to see is taking place. Appropriate guidance to users ∪ and viewers can be realized by the above-mentioned event services and the like.

Further, another system (including the game machine 4, the controller DC, and the book-type personal computer 5) may execute all or part of the roles (various processes, etc.) of the center server 2 in the above-described form. That is, the effect control system of the present invention may appropriately include various other systems. On the other hand, only the center server 2 (including the case where another system functions as the center server 2) may function as the effect control system of the present invention. Alternatively, the personal computer 5 or the like installed in each event venue EF may function as a local server and play the entire role of the center server 2. That is, an appropriate local server may function as the center server 2. In this case, in such a local server, only the production control data CD or the like customized for the event venue EF in which it is installed, that is, the production control record CDR or the like corresponding to the event venue EF (of the "venue ID"). Various data (information may be omitted) may be used (the same applies to various data provided to the controller DC of the event venue EF).

Various aspects of the present invention derived from each of the above-described embodiments and modifications are described below. In the following description, in order to facilitate understanding of each aspect of the present invention, the corresponding members shown in the accompanying drawings are added in parentheses, whereby the present invention is limited to the illustrated form. It's not a thing.

The effect control system of the present invention is connected to the effect device (3) installed in the event venue (EF) via a network (NT), and is used as the effect control data (CD) for executing the control of the effect device. Based on this, a production control system (1) that controls the production equipment so as to realize the production at the event venue, and a game event using a game provided by the game machine (4) is provided as an event at the event venue. When the switching condition is satisfied, the condition determining means (24) for determining whether or not the switching condition based on each play situation that occurs in the game is satisfied, and when the switching condition is not satisfied, the effect is based on the effect control data. A device control means (24) for controlling the device, and a manual control as a manual control of the effect device instead of an automatic control as a control of the effect device based on the effect control data when the switching condition is satisfied. Is provided with a control switching means (24) for switching the control of the effect device from the automatic control to the manual control so that is executed until the restart condition is satisfied.

According to the present invention, while automatic control of the effect device based on the effect control data is realized, control of the effect device is switched from such automatic control to manual control when the switching condition is satisfied. The switching condition is a condition based on the play situation. Therefore, the play status can be reflected in the switching from the automatic control to the manual control via the switching condition. As a result, the control of the effect device can be switched between automatic control (control based on the effect control data) and manual control (manual control) according to the game play status.

The switching condition may be configured as an appropriate condition based on the play situation. For example, when the information corresponding to the play situation is acquired, the switching condition may be configured as a condition for determining whether or not the switching condition is satisfied based on the information. Alternatively, the switching condition may be configured as a condition for determining whether or not the switching condition is satisfied based on other information that reflects the play situation. That is, the switching condition may be configured as a condition for directly using the information corresponding to the play situation, or may be configured as a condition for indirectly using the information corresponding to the play situation.

Specifically, for example, as one aspect of the effect control system of the present invention, the game machine is connected to the game machine via a network (NT), and play information corresponding to each play situation of the game is acquired from the game machine. The information acquisition means (24) may be provided, and the condition determination means may adopt an aspect of determining whether or not the switching condition is satisfied based on the play information. Further, in this aspect, the switching condition is when the game event proceeds according to each schedule included in the event schedule, and the event schedule includes a play status schedule as a schedule corresponding to each play status. The play status schedule is included in the requirements, and the condition determination means is based on event data (ED) described so that each schedule of the event schedule is associated with progress information for identifying the schedule currently in progress. It may be determined that the switching condition is satisfied when the next play status schedule corresponds to a specific play status schedule.

Resumption of automatic control may be realized as appropriate. Therefore, various conditions may be adopted as the restart condition. For example, the restart condition may be satisfied when the restart instruction is executed by various users such as the event operator. Alternatively, for example, in the aspect of the present invention using event data, the restart condition may be satisfied when the next play status schedule corresponds to a predetermined play status schedule for which the automatic control should be restarted. In this case, the play status can be reflected in the resumption of automatic control.

On the other hand, the computer program (PG1) of the present invention is configured to make the computer (21) connected to the effect device via the network function as each means of the above-mentioned effect control system.

Further, the control method of the present invention is connected to the effect device (3) installed in the event venue (EF) via a network (NT), and the effect control data (CD) for executing the control of the effect device. The game provided by the game machine (4) as an event at the event venue is provided to the computer (21) incorporated in the effect control system (1) that controls the effect device so as to realize the effect at the event venue based on the above. Based on the condition determination procedure for determining whether or not the switching condition based on each play situation that occurs in the game is satisfied when the used game event is provided, and the effect control data when the switching condition is not satisfied. The device control procedure for controlling the effect device and the manual control as the control of the effect device manually instead of the automatic control as the control of the effect device based on the effect control data when the switching condition is satisfied. Is executed until the restart condition is satisfied, and the control switching procedure for switching the control of the effect device from the automatic control to the manual control is executed. By executing these computer programs or control methods, the production control system of the present invention can be realized.

(Reference example 1)
As described above, in the system of Patent Document 1, an event using a character displayed on a large display device is provided at an event venue. On the other hand, at the event venue, a game event using a game provided by a game machine may be provided. In such a game event, it is often exciting when the production according to the game play situation is executed at the event venue. For this reason, the production device may be manually controlled so that the production according to the playing situation of the game is realized. However, not only is it time-consuming, but mistakes are likely to occur. Therefore, there is a need for a system that automates the same control, but the system of Patent Document 1 does not consider such an effect according to the playing situation of the game.

Therefore, it is an object of the following embodiments to provide an effect control system or the like capable of controlling the effect of the effect device according to the playing situation of the game.

The effect control system of this reference example is connected to the effect device (3) installed at the event venue (EF) via a network (NT), and controls the effect device so as to realize the effect at the event venue. In the production control system (1), when a game event using a game provided by the game machine (4) is provided as an event at the event venue, the production control system (1) is connected to the game machine via a network (NT). The data acquisition means (24) for acquiring the production data (SD) including the production information corresponding to each play situation generated in the game as the information to be the basis of the production from the game machine, the production information and the production. Based on the effect control data (CD) described so as to be associated with the corresponding effect as the effect to be executed in each play situation corresponding to the effect information among the plurality of types of effects that can be realized by the device. It is provided with an effect determining means (24) for discriminating the corresponding effect corresponding to the effect information, and a device control means (24) for controlling the effect device so as to execute the corresponding effect.

According to this reference example, the effect data including the effect information according to the play situation of the game is acquired, and the corresponding effect associated with the effect information is determined from the plurality of effects based on the effect control data. Then, the production device is actually controlled so that the corresponding production is realized. That is, the play situation is reflected in the production of the production device via the production information. As a result, it is possible to control the production of the production device according to the play status of the game.

The number of event venues may be appropriate. For example, a single or a plurality of production devices may be provided in only one event venue, or a plurality of production devices may be provided in a plurality of event venues. When a plurality of production devices are provided at a plurality of event venues, one production device may be provided at each event venue, or a plurality of production devices may be provided at each event venue. As a result, the types of effects that can be produced may differ between the event venues. In this case, a production that can be commonly realized at all event venues may be unified as a corresponding production, or a different production may be realized at each event venue. For example, in one aspect of the effect control system of this reference example, the effect control data includes a plurality of effect devices for realizing the corresponding effects, and a plurality of event venues in which the plurality of effect devices are installed. If present, the venue identification information for identifying each event venue is further associated with the corresponding production so that the corresponding production differs for each event venue according to the production equipment installed at each event venue. The effect determination means determines the corresponding effect for each event venue based on the effect control data, and the device control means executes the corresponding effect corresponding to each event venue at each event venue. Each production device may be controlled so as to be used. In this case, it is possible to realize the production according to each event venue.

The game machine may be installed at the event venue or at a different venue. Further, the number of game machines may be one or a plurality of game machines. When a plurality of game machines are used for a game event, the production data may be provided from one of the game machines, and the corresponding production may be determined based on the production data corresponding to the one game machine. Alternatively, the effect data may be provided from a plurality of game machines, and the corresponding effect may be determined based on the effect data. In this case, one corresponding effect may be executed based on a plurality of effect data corresponding to each of the plurality of game machines, or a plurality of corresponding effects corresponding to the plurality of effect data may be executed. Further, when one corresponding effect is executed, or when a plurality of corresponding effects compete with each other, the corresponding effect may be adjusted as appropriate.

For example, in an embodiment in which a corresponding effect is prepared for each event venue, the data acquisition means uses the effect data for two or more games of the plurality of game machines when the game machine includes a plurality of game machines. Acquired from the machines (4A, 4B), the effect discriminating means discriminates a plurality of corresponding effects corresponding to the two or more game machines at one event venue (EF) as the corresponding effect corresponding to the effect information. When this is done, the plurality of corresponding effects are adjusted to the adjusted effects, and the device control means is an effect device installed in the one event venue so that the adjusted effects are executed as the corresponding effects. 3) may be controlled. Further, in this aspect, the effect determining means may use either one of the effect in which the plurality of corresponding effects are combined and the effect of sequentially executing the plurality of corresponding effects as the adjusted effect. ..

The production data may be appropriately configured. For example, the effect data may be configured as simple data for a program, or may be configured as a simple program. For example, in one aspect of this reference example, the data acquisition means may acquire script-formatted data as the effect data from the game machine. In this case, a relatively complicated play situation can be reflected in the production.

On the other hand, the computer program (PG1) of this reference example causes the effect device and the computer (21) connected to the game machine via a network (NT) to function as each means of the above-mentioned effect control system. It is composed of.

Further, the control method of this reference example is connected to the production device (3) installed at the event venue (EF) via a network (NT), and controls the production device so as to realize the production at the event venue. When a game event using a game provided by the game machine (4) is provided as an event at the event venue to the computer (21) incorporated in the effect control system (1), the network (NT) is provided to the game machine. ), And the data acquisition procedure for acquiring the production data (SD) including the production information corresponding to each play situation generated in the game as the information to be the basis of the production from the game machine, and the production information. Based on the effect control data (CD) described so as to be associated with the corresponding effect as the effect to be executed in each play situation corresponding to the effect information among the plurality of types of effects that can be realized by the effect device. Therefore, the effect determination procedure for determining the corresponding effect corresponding to the effect information and the device control procedure for controlling the effect device so as to execute the corresponding effect are executed. By executing these computer programs or control methods, the production control system of the present invention can be realized.

(Reference example 2)
As described above, in the system of Patent Document 1, an event using a character displayed on a large display device is provided at an event venue. On the other hand, at the event venue, a game event using a game provided by a game machine may be provided. In such a game event, it is often exciting when the production according to the game play situation is executed at the event venue. For this reason, the production device may be manually controlled so that the production according to the playing situation of the game is realized. However, not only is it time-consuming, but mistakes are likely to occur. Therefore, there is a need for a system that automates similar control. Further, a plurality of game machines may be used as a game event, and in some cases, only the play status of a part of those game machines should be reflected in the production of the event venue. In the system of Patent Document 1, not only the production according to the play situation of such a game, but also the determination of some game machines that should use the play situation is not taken into consideration.

Therefore, it is an object of the following embodiments to provide an effect control system or the like capable of controlling the effect of the effect device according to the game play status on some of the game machines among the plurality of games. ..

The effect control system of this reference example is connected to the effect device (3) installed at the event venue (EF) via a network (NT), and controls the effect device so as to realize the effect at the event venue. In the production control system (1), when a game event using a game provided by a plurality of game machines (4) is provided as an event at the event venue, the event venue is related to the game event. Based on the target identification data (ED, SD, MD) described so that the correspondence information corresponding to each event situation generated in the above and the game machine identification information for identifying each game machine are associated with each other, the plurality of games The target identification means (25) for identifying a part of the game machines (4) related to each event situation among the machines and the plurality of game machines are connected to the plurality of game machines via a network (NT), which is the basis of the production. Data acquisition means (24) for acquiring effect data (SD) including effect information corresponding to each play situation generated in the game as power information from the part of the game machines, and the effect according to the effect information are executed. It is provided with a device control means (24) for controlling the effect device so as to be performed.

According to this reference example, among a plurality of game machines, some game machines related to each event situation that may occur at the event venue are identified based on the target identification data, and the game play status from some of the game machines. The production data including the production information according to the above is acquired. Then, the production equipment is actually controlled so that the production according to the production information is realized. That is, some game machines related to each event situation are specified, and the play situation of some of the game machines is reflected in the production of the production device via the production information. As a result, it is possible to control the production of the production device according to the game play status on some of the game machines among the plurality of game machines. In addition, when two or more game machines are specified as some game machines, the production according to the play situation of those game machines may be appropriately realized. For example, if one effect is prepared in advance as an effect according to those play situations, that effect may be realized. Alternatively, when a plurality of effects compete with each other according to their playing situations, they may be adjusted as appropriate.

Various types of information may be described in the target identification data, and some game machines may be appropriately specified based on the information. For example, in the target identification data, information that associates each play situation that may occur in the game with some game machines related to the play situation is described, and based on this, some game machines according to the play situation are specified. You may. Alternatively, even if information for specifying the position of each game machine is described in the target identification data, and a game machine located in a predetermined range such as a shooting range of a camera is specified as a part of the game machine based on the information. good. Further, for example, in one aspect of the effect control system of this reference example, when the effect is executed according to an event schedule for managing each schedule of the event in the target identification data (ED), Information for identifying each schedule is described as the corresponding information, and the target identification means may specify a game machine related to each schedule of the event as a part of the game machines based on the target identification data. ..

The event schedule may include various schedules. For example, when a cooperative game is played, the start time of the play may be described as a schedule. Then, a plurality of game machines that cooperate to play the game may be specified as some game machines. Alternatively, in a mode in which each schedule of the event schedule is used as correspondence information, the event schedule is the above-mentioned two as each schedule when a battle-type game in which two game machines compete against each other is provided as the game. The target specifying means may specify the two game machines as a part of the game machines based on the battle schedule, including the battle schedule of the game machines (4).

The number of event venues may be appropriate. For example, a single or a plurality of production devices may be provided in only one event venue, or a plurality of production devices may be provided in a plurality of event venues. When a plurality of production devices are provided at a plurality of event venues, one production device may be provided at each event venue, or a plurality of production devices may be provided at each event venue. As a result, the types of effects that can be produced may differ between the event venues. In this case, a production that can be commonly realized at all event venues may be unified as a corresponding production, or a different production may be realized at each event venue. For example, in one aspect of the effect control system of this reference example, when the target identification data includes a plurality of effect devices that realize the effect, and a plurality of event venues in which the plurality of effect devices are installed. The venue identification information for identifying each of the plurality of event venues is described so as to be further associated with the corresponding information, and the target identification means is an event venue related to each event situation based on the venue identification information. May be further specified.

On the other hand, the computer program (PG1) of this reference example causes the effect device and the computer (21) connected to the game machine via a network (NT) to function as each means of the above-mentioned effect control system. It is composed of.

Further, the control method of this reference example is connected to the production device (3) installed at the event venue (EF) via a network (NT), and controls the production device so as to realize the production at the event venue. When a game event using a game provided by a plurality of game machines (4) is provided as an event at the event venue to the computer (21) incorporated in the effect control system (1). Based on the target identification data (ED, SD, MD) described so that the corresponding information corresponding to each event situation generated at the event venue and the game machine identification information for identifying each game machine are associated with each other. The target identification procedure for identifying a part of the game machines (4) related to each event situation among the plurality of game machines and the connection to the plurality of game machines via the network (NT) are performed to produce the effect. The data acquisition procedure for acquiring the production data (SD) including the production information corresponding to each play situation generated in the game as the basic information from the part of the game machines, and the production according to the production information are executed. The device control procedure for controlling the effect device and the device control procedure for controlling the effect device are executed. By executing these computer programs or control methods, the effect control system of this reference example can be realized.

1 Production control system 2 Center server 3 Production equipment 4 Game machine 21 Control unit (computer)
24 Equipment service management unit (data acquisition means, effect discrimination means, device control means, condition discrimination means, control switching means, information acquisition means)
25 Game console service management department (target identification means)
CD production control data ED event data MD device management data SD production data EF event venue NT network PG1 program (computer program)

Claims (6)

The effect control that is connected to the effect device installed at the event venue via a network and controls the effect device so as to realize the effect at the event venue based on the effect control data for executing the control of the effect device. It ’s a system,
When a game event using a game provided by a game machine is provided as an event at the event venue, a condition determination means for determining whether or not a switching condition based on each play situation that occurs in the game is satisfied, and a condition determination means.
When the switching condition is not satisfied, the device control means for controlling the effect device based on the effect control data, and the device control means.
When the switching condition is satisfied, the manual control as the control of the effect device is manually executed instead of the automatic control as the control of the effect device based on the effect control data until the restart condition is satisfied. , A control switching means for switching the control of the effect device from the automatic control to the manual control,
A production control system equipped with. It is provided with an information acquisition means which is connected to the game machine via a network and acquires play information according to each play situation of the game from the game machine.
The production control system according to claim 1, wherein the condition determination means determines whether or not the switching condition is satisfied based on the play information. The switching condition requires the play status schedule when the game event proceeds according to each schedule included in the event schedule and the event schedule includes a play status schedule as a schedule according to each play status. Including in
In the condition determination means, the next play status schedule is a specific play status schedule based on the event data described so that each schedule of the event schedule is associated with the progress information for identifying the schedule currently in progress. The production control system according to claim 1, wherein it is determined that the switching condition is satisfied when the above conditions are met. The effect control system according to claim 3, wherein the restart condition is satisfied when the next play status schedule corresponds to a predetermined play status schedule for which the automatic control should be restarted. A computer program configured to cause a computer connected to the production device via the network to function as each means of the production control system according to any one of claims 1 to 4. The effect control that is connected to the effect device installed at the event venue via a network and controls the effect device so as to realize the effect at the event venue based on the effect control data for executing the control of the effect device. On the computer built into the system
When a game event using a game provided by a game machine is provided as an event at the event venue, a condition determination procedure for determining whether or not a switching condition based on each play situation that occurs in the game is satisfied, and a condition determination procedure.
A device control procedure for controlling the effect device based on the effect control data when the switching condition is not satisfied, and a device control procedure for controlling the effect device.
When the switching condition is satisfied, the manual control as the control of the effect device is manually executed instead of the automatic control as the control of the effect device based on the effect control data until the restart condition is satisfied. , A control switching procedure for switching the control of the effect device from the automatic control to the manual control,
Control method to execute.

Images